Favela Day and Favela Week 2025
Favela Day
Favela Day, celebrated on November 4th, was established in 2006 by CUFA’s founder, Celso Athayde, and officially recognized by Municipal Law No. 4,383 in Rio de Janeiro.
The date was created to redefine the concept of the favela, highlighting the strength of its residents and emphasizing that these territories are made up of people who consume, create, innovate, and achieve — not defined solely by their challenges or needs.
Favela Day is an opportunity for society and public authorities to acknowledge the capacity, creativity, and resilience of more than 18 million Brazilians living in these territories. It promotes reflection on the challenges, achievements, and solutions that emerge from within the favelas themselves.
Favela Week
Favela Week is a national and international movement that celebrates the strength, creativity, and resilience of the favelas. Created and organized by CUFA (Central Única das Favelas), the initiative brings together cultural, sports, educational, and entertainment programs, giving visibility and recognition to the favelas that transform Brazil through their economic, cultural, and social power.
Beginning on Favela Day (November 4th) and running until November 10th, Favela Week extends the celebration to all favelas across the country. It enables the largest possible number of local initiatives, connecting cultural, sports, and social events through its official platform — featuring cultural gatherings, educational workshops, sports tournaments, religious events, social actions, and musical performances.
Tributes and Honorees
Over the years, Favela Week has paid tribute to artists and figures who represent the voice and struggle of Brazil’s peripheries, such as Zeca Pagodinho, Leci Brandão, and Arlindo Cruz.
In 2025, the main honoree will be Belo, recognized for his career marked by popular music that resonates throughout the communities — from samba and pagode stages born in the favelas to his connection with millions of Brazilians.
Belo symbolizes a generation that found in culture a path for resistance, overcoming challenges, and building identity.
Vision
To be a global reference platform that connects favelas, artists, leaders, and international partners, consolidating the favela as a symbol of innovation, resilience, and culture.
Mission
To promote actions that value culture, education, entrepreneurship, and identity within the favelas — strengthening the local economy, recognizing achievements, and expanding the positive visibility of these territories.
Values
Power of the Favelas: We believe in the transformative capacity of every favela.
Inclusion and Representation: Every voice in the favela matters.
Culture and Resistance: We celebrate traditions, creativity, and inspiring life stories.
Education and Development: We encourage learning and innovation within the favelas.
Solidarity and Collaboration: We connect people and initiatives to generate positive social impact.